Hurley fans show 'awesome' support

I would like to take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge all the wonderful people who in some way, big or small, helped to make our football experience memorable Saturday during Hurley’s semifinal game in Wausau, Wis.

A big thank you goes to Sharon Ofstad, food service director at Hurley K-12 School, for putting on and sponsoring morning breakfast for our team and the high school band. She was assisted by Natalie Patritto, Spanish teacher; Marcy Kusz from guidance; and our district administrator, Chris Patritto.

Thanks go out to the Iron County Sheriff’s Department, the city of Hurley Police, the cities of Hurley and Montreal fire departments, along with volunteer fire departments from the townships of Anderson, Kimball, Oma, Saxon-Gurney in Wisconsin and Beacon Ambulance for a tremendous sendoff and welcome home escort.

To the many parents, fans and well-wishers who saluted and cheered us as we drove down Silver Street, and the huge crowd who gathered at the Iron County Courthouse with signs, posters and balloons — thank you.

On our welcome home, fans greeted us at several Hurley locations. You are all awesome.

Thanks are also owed to the Hurley Midget Booster Club and the Hurley Quarterback Club.

It’s these supporters of Hurley football who, each and every year, take time to make our program special. Coach Scott Erickson always says it’s a community team.

Our players were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support shown. It is something they will never forget.

Finally, thanks to the many alumni who were in attendance. Folks from Wausau, Stevens Point, Green Bay, Milwaukee and Appleton, Wis ., were there to root on the orange and black. Your loyalties are not forgotten.

On behalf of Coach Erickson, our staff and team, we say thank you for making this experience one we will long remember.